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Drone Comparison

DJI Zenmuse P1 vs L3: Photogrammetry vs LiDAR

An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.

Feature DJI Zenmuse P1 DJI Zenmuse L3
Sensor 45MP Full-Frame -
Shutter Mechanical Global -
Lenses 24/35/50mm -
Interval 0.7 sec -
PPK Yes -
Option A DJI

DJI Zenmuse P1

Full-Frame Photogrammetry

The Zenmuse P1 features a 45MP full-frame sensor with interchangeable lenses for ultimate photogrammetry quality.

Pros

  • Full-frame 45MP
  • Lens flexibility
  • Mechanical shutter
  • Exceptional detail
  • Lower per-acre cost

Cons

  • No ground penetration
  • Light-dependent
  • Processing intensive

Best For

Orthomosaic mappingUrban modelingFaçade documentationHigh-resolution imagery
Option B DJI

DJI Zenmuse L3

LiDAR Excellence

The Zenmuse L3 delivers 4.5M points/sec with exceptional vegetation penetration and 450m range.

Pros

  • Ground penetration
  • Works in shadows
  • Direct 3D capture
  • Vegetation mapping
  • No processing wait

Cons

  • Higher per-flight cost
  • Lower image detail
  • Heavier payload

Best For

ForestryTerrain under canopyLow-light conditionsDirect point clouds

Our Expert Verdict

Tie - Choose Based on Your Needs

P1 for visual/texture-rich mapping. L3 for terrain under vegetation or direct 3D data.

Choose DJI Zenmuse P1 if...

Choose P1 for urban areas, facades, and texture-rich deliverables.

Choose DJI Zenmuse L3 if...

Choose L3 for forestry, terrain mapping, or when you need ground under canopy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which gives better accuracy?

Both achieve survey-grade accuracy. P1 excels at texture detail. L3 excels at direct 3D and vegetation penetration.

Equipment Used

Professional Equipment In This Comparison

TheFuture3D operates all equipment featured in this comparison. We're certified professionals delivering expert results.

DJI
Current Gen
DJI

DJI Zenmuse P1

Full-Frame Photogrammetry Benchmark

Sensor 45MP full-frame CMOS
Shutter Type MECHANICAL (1/2000s max)
Lens Options 24mm, 35mm, 50mm
Ultra-high resolution photogrammetry Construction documentation
DJI
Current Gen
DJI

DJI Zenmuse L3

Flagship Drone LiDAR

Detection Range 950m @ 80% reflectivity
Point Rate 700K+ pts/sec
Returns Up to 16 returns
Topographic surveying Forestry and vegetation mapping

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